Peace signifies a state of harmony characterized by the absence of hostility and violence, a concept central to many philosophies, religions like Buddhism and Christianity, and figures such as Mahatma Gandhi. While a universal definition remains elusive, varying by context, it features prominently in literature, including Immanuel Kant's "Perpetual Peace: A Philosophical Sketch." The English word "peace," derived from the Latin "pax," came into use around c. 1300 as a translation of the Hebrew "shalom," a term that encompasses much more than just peace, including justice, well-being, and security.

Across cultures, peace is deeply ingrained in symbolism and often used as a greeting or farewell, as seen in the Arabic "salaam" or Hawaiian "aloha." Beyond external conditions, "psychological peace" – cultivated through inner qualities like tranquility, compassion, and forgiveness – is considered a vital precursor for establishing peaceful behavior. Despite its diverse interpretations, the promotion of peace remains a core tenet for ideologies such as Pacifism.